Sunderland’s attempts to land Roberto Di Matteo as their new manager have taken a blow today as reports have emerged from Turkey that Galatasaray are keen for the Italian to replace recently sacked coach Fatih Terim.

Black Cats owner Ellis Short had drawn up a list containing several names to succeed Paolo Di Canio, who was sacked on Sunday after less than six months in charge.

Former Chelsea manager Di Matteo, who guided the team to Champions League glory last year, was said to be one of the top targets as well as current favourite Gus Poyet and ex-England manager Steve McClaren, with caretaker boss Kevin Ball unlikely to be given the role on a permanent basis.

But that could soon change after Turkish television station Lig TV reported that league champions Galatasaray have presented a two-year deal to Di Matteo, although former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has also been linked.

Long-serving manager Terim was already under pressure following the 6-1 thumping handed to them at home by Real Madrid in their Champions League opener, and the veteran coach was then shown the exit after rejecting a two-year extension to his current deal at the capital club.